Still recovering from a lingering virus, defending champion Justine Henin-Hardenne of Belgium has officially withdrawn from WTA tournaments in San Diego and Montreal the next two weeks.
"I was advised by my doctors to wait yet again to return to competition," Henin-Hardenne said in a statement released Tuesday at the WTA Tour event in Los Angeles. "As you can imagine, I am thoroughly disappointed.
"The past four months have been challenging. I have worked hard to try and get back onto the court as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, however, my body just needs more rest. "The only thing I can say is that I wish everyone the best of luck in San Diego and Montreal. I love both of these tournaments and hope to be back there next year."
Henin-Hardenne finished last year as the top player in the world after capturing eight titles, including Grand Slam crowns at the French Open and US Open and the WTA Tour Championships.
However, the 22-year-old Belgian lost in the second round of this year's French Open and pulled out of Wimbledon last month.
Despite the temporary setback, Henin-Hardenne continues to take steps toward recovery and could return at next month's Olympics in Athens, coach Carlos Rodriguez said on her website on Sunday. |